The Evolution of Mating Systems in Insects and Arachnids

Insects and arachnids display the most impressive diversity of mating and social behavior among all animals. This book investigates sexual competition in these groups, and the variety of ways in which males and females pursue, persuade, manipulate, control and help one another, enabling us to gain a better understanding of how conflicts and confluences of interest evolve together. Each chapter provides a comprehensive review of mating systems in particular insect and arachnid groups, discusses intrinsic and extrinsic factors responsible for observed mating strategies, and suggests fruitful avenues for further research. The book culminates in a synthesis, reviewing the data in terms of the theory of sexual conflict. This broad-based book will be of immense value to students and researchers interested in reproductive strategies, behavioral ecology, entomology and arachnology.

Insects and arachnids display the most impressive diversity of mating behaviour in the animal kingdom. In this broad-based book, sexual competition in insects and arachnids are investigated, teasing out the variety of ways in which males and females pursue, persuade, manipulate, control and help one another. It provides a comprehensive account of the theory of sexual conflict for students and researchers interested in mating behaviour and its evolution, behavioural ecology, entomology and arachnology.